Ramble John Logo

Wichita Botanica 2010
Wichita, Kansas

During our eight cities in eight days marathon we made the short trip from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to Wichita so we would have time for a quick tour of the Wichita Botanica Garden.

Garden Path Garden Path

As I recall even for mid May this was what the 100 acre woods gang would call a blustery day. Again that is very much a mixed blessing. From where I am writing in mid April I could wish it was a lot warmer but attractions a rarely open at the ideal photography hours of dusk and dawn so cloudy is the best compromise.

Succulents Cacti Cacti

Apparently it had been warmer since the cacti were blooming on schedule.

Japanese Garden Stream Japanese Garden Pool Garden Fountain Lily Pads

Japanese Gardens and water features I always find fascinating. And when it starts to drizzle the shelter is always welcome.

Boy at Pond Iris Heron Sculpture
Roses Roses Roses Flowers

Despite the cooler temperatures this day the roses and many other flowers were in full bloom.


Purple Flowers Sculpture Flower Tulip Tulip

Kansas is that borderline between the midwest and the true south, but here in the southwest corner is a lot more like the southwest. Add water and anything grows.

The flower basket is an interesting feature I have not seen in other gardens. The tubes on each side are actually kaleidoscopes using the flowers as a base for the reflections so they will be different on very visit.